The aim of this publication is to assist the port authority to develop or review planning in order to minimise the risk of accidents at liquefied gas terminals. It will also help to control the consequences of an accident when a gas tanker is within port limits.

This book is a reference guide for the port authority operating management of both liquefied gas terminals and carriers when developing or reviewing their planning. It is not a comprehensive manual or a contingency plan for all types of accidents, nor is it a code of practice. It restricts itself to areas that are relevant to the carriage and ship/shore handling of liquefied gases. Contingency planning for handling liquefied gases will vary from port to port, e.g. size and type of cargo, nautical and weather conditions, industrial and local authority or government resources. Details of planning and regulations for any port or terminal should be dealt with locally.

The book has been compiled by an Inter-Industry Group with assistance from members of the International Chamber of Shipping, Oil Companies International Marine Forum, and the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators Ltd.

This revised edition takes account of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers 1978, amended in 1995 (STCW Convention), chapter IX of SOLAS, the International Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention and the ISM Code. The ship’s operator is responsible for ensuring that written procedures are in place and that the ship’s crew are able to work together in the event of an accident.

Liquefied gas marine transportation and cargo handling has an impressive safety record spanning more than four decades. To uphold this record, it is essential that safety in design and operational procedures is maintained and that appropriate contingency planning is implemented.